Welcome to the new financial year! There are several federal legislative changes taking effect from today, such as changes to the minimum wage to $26.44 per hour and the Government-funded paid parental leave increases to 26 weeks.
Here in Victoria, the Victorian Small Business Commission launched the revised guidance on retail leasing and dispute resolution for small business today, making it easier for small business to start and to manage their businesses. The revised guideline includes 14 languages and is easily accessible for anyone using AI in language. Small businesses, as we all know, play a critical role in sponsoring community functions and events and their success underpin a society that is cohesive, connected and prosperous.
Despite the progress we continue to make, recent acts of hatred remind us that there is still work to do. My thoughts are with the Muslim community following the recent assault on a father outside a mosque in Hampton Park. Acts like these have no place in Victoria and remind us of our shared responsibility to foster respect, understanding and inclusion. I also welcome the timely launch last night of a national media awareness campaign, Report Islamophobia, by the Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia. Initiatives like this help us better understand the experiences of Muslim Australians and strengthen a Victoria where everyone feels safe, respected and valued.
Today, the VMC’s Regional Advisory Councils (RACs) also conclude, as the new entity, Multicultural Victoria, takes shape following the Lekakis Review. I would like to publicly express my appreciation for the contributions of all RAC members in my time as Chair, and all RAC members who have contributed since RACs began almost 15 years ago. Their insights also helped shape the 2025 Regional Advisory Forum Report, leaving a lasting legacy for multicultural Victoria. I encourage you to read my farewell message to RAC members, along with our media release marking this important milestone.
Together, these reflections continue to remind me that much of the work that strengthens our communities happens quietly. Every day, community leaders, faith leaders and volunteers generously give their time, wisdom and care, often without recognition or expectation of fanfare. It is impossible to comprehend a society without the work of these unsung heroes.
That is why I encourage everyone to consider nominating an individual or organisation for the 2026 Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence. These awards shine a light on the people whose leadership, service and commitment make a genuine difference in our communities. By recognising their achievements, we inspire others to continue to contribute and participate, and make Victoria a place where everyone belongs.
Thank you, as always, for your continued commitment to strengthening our communities and enriching our multicultural state.
Warm regards,
Vivienne Nguyen AM, Chairperson
News and events
VIC | VMC | CALLING | Nominees for 2026 Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence | nominations closing soon!
Nominations are closing soon for the 2026 Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence (MAEs). Now in its 25th year, the MAEs are Australia’s longest‑standing multicultural awards. The MAEs recognise individuals and organisations making outstanding contributions to Victoria’s multicultural communities and intercultural and interfaith understanding.
The 2026 MAEs include 13 categories: Victorian Multicultural Honour Roll, Premier’s Award for Intercultural Connection, Arts and Culture, Business and Employment, Media, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Prevention of Family Violence, Public Sector Diversity and Inclusion, Police, Refugee Leadership, Refugee Youth Leadership, Sport and Recreation, and Youth Leadership.
You may nominate any individual or organisation you believe deserves recognition. Prior to nominating, please read the nomination guide. Nominations can then be submitted through the nominations portal.
For questions about the nomination process, contact the Awards team: awards@vmc.vic.gov.au
VIC | VMC | TOURING | Multicultural Film Festival 2026
The VMC is proud to present Multicultural Film Festival on Tour — bringing powerful, diverse storytelling to regional and metropolitan communities across the state.
This is your chance to:
- Experience a wide range of perspectives on the big screen
- Discover incredible films from emerging and established creators from multicultural backgrounds
- Attend screenings at multiple venues across the state
- Connect with filmmakers and fellow film lovers
Presented by the Victorian Multicultural Commission in partnership with Swinburne University of Technology and SBS.
AUST | OSECI | REPORTING | Islamophobia Campaign
The Office of Australia's Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia (OSECI) has launched the Report Islamophobia campaign to encourage Australians to recognise, report and respond to incidents of Islamophobia.
Reporting incidents helps build a better understanding of anti-Muslim hate, supports those affected, and contributes to safer, more inclusive communities. The campaign also encourages bystanders to report incidents they witness and stand in solidarity with those affected.
For more information and reporting resources, please visit the Office of the Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia website.
AUST | AMFRT | WEBINAR | Multicultural Australia and the Economy | Monday 6 July 2026 | 12.30-2pm
The Australian Multicultural Foundation Research Trust (AMFRT) invites you to an online seminar exploring the role of multiculturalism in Australia's economic future.
Hear from leading economists, researchers and policy experts as they discuss migration, workforce participation, productivity, social inclusion and the impact of misinformation on public debate.
- Where: Online. Registered attendees will receive the access link via email shortly before the event commences.
- Cost: Free
- Bookings: online via Humanitix
AUST | ABS | ADVISING | The Census counts everyone in Australia | Tuesday 11 August 2026
We need to hear from everyone because in the Census every answer matters to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).
- Learn more.
- For help in your language call the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) on 131 450.
VIC | GOV | OFFERING | Half-price public transport travel across Victoria
Public transport is now half price across Victoria, helping make travel more affordable for people getting to work, study, appointments, services and community events.
The discount applies to trains, trams and buses across the state, including regional services. It applies to both full fare and concession passengers, with the daily fare cap reduced during the discount period. Passengers do not need to apply. Simply touch on as usual and the half-price fare will be calculated automatically.
AUST | GOV | TRANSLATING | Practical ways to reduce household energy costs
The Australian Government has updated a suite of free translated energy guides to help households better manage their energy use, save money and access support when needed.
Available in 40 languages, the guides cover bright ideas for saving energy and money in your home, a renter’s guide to saving energy and water and guidelines on what to do if you are having trouble paying your electricity and water bills.
- Languages include:
- Arabic
- Chinese (Simplified and Traditional)
- Filipino
- Greek
- Hindi
- Punjabi
- Spanish
- Ukrainian
- Vietnamese
- and many more.
- Learn more